Decision Maker: Executive

Outcome: Recommendations Approved

Is Key Decision?: Yes

Is Callable In?: Yes

Date of Decision: September 9, 2025

Purpose: To agree to progress a zero-emission bus scheme on the Kettering – Rothwell – Desborough – Corby/Market Harborough corridor in partnership with Stagecoach.

Content: RESOLVED   KEY DECISION   That the Executive:   a)      Agreed to provide grant funding up to £1.8million towards the purchase of eight electric buses and associated depot infrastructure as set out in section 5 of this report, subject to the receipt of detailed advice that the funding is in accordance with the Subsidy Control Act.   b)      Delegated authority to the Executive Director of Place & Economy in consultation with the Executive Member for Highways and Travel to take such actions as necessary to enter into a funding agreement with the bus operator.   c)      Authorised the Executive Director of Place and Economy, following consultation with Legal and Finance, to approve the execution and sealing of the funding agreement     Reason for Recommendations: Utilisation of government grant to improve bus services, increase bus patronage and lower carbon emissions in North Northamptonshire.   Alternative Options Considered – Options would include not spending the grant funding and allow the Department for Transport to recoup it. The funding could be spent on other types of capital bus improvement such as bus stops or bus priority measures. Consideration was given to the introduction of electric buses on the X4 Northampton – Peterborough service, but this is beyond the range of current battery technology.